Symptoms of Leukemia

Leukemia is classified as acute or chronic depending on how fast symptoms appear. Symptoms for acute leukemia appear faster and may prompt a visit to the doctor. Chronic leukemia is a much slower process. Some people may notice symptoms months or years after leukemia first appears, while others may have no symptoms at all. In people with no symptoms, leukemia may be found incidentally during a routine blood test.

If you experience any symptoms, do not assume it is due to cancer. Many symptoms can be caused by other, less serious conditions. However, it is still important to discuss them with your doctor. Early detection and treatment improve outcomes for both cancer and other health conditions.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the type of blood cells that are affected.

A drop in the number of normal white blood cells makes it harder for the body to fight infection and may lead to:

Persistent fever that is not specific to another condition

Flu-like symptoms

Night sweats

Minor cuts that heal slowly—the area around the cut may become red and swollen

A drop in the number of normal red blood cells is called anemia, which decreases the amount of oxygen reaching the body's tissues. Symptoms of anemia may include:

Weakness and fatigue

Pale skin

Headache

A drop in the number of normal platelet cells makes it harder for blood to clot properly. Without clotting, even small injuries can lead to severe bleeding. Symptoms may include:

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.